From dating agency fees to paying for vermin control, our consumer expert
lists some of the surprising savings you can make by owning a pet

Pets of course have some qualities that are beyond price, particularly in the form of companionship. A survey from Saga Pet Insurance found that three quarters of people find their dog makes them happy when they had been sad.

Dating agency fees

Walking a dog on either end of the spectrum, a dashing saluki or dalmatian perhaps that draws favourable comment, or a spunky mongrel who makes friends - or even enemies - can create a good and subtle excuse for bumping into someone and starting to get to know them.

Cats can very efficiently take on some pest control when it comes to mice.

Personal trainer

Saga Pet Insurance says one in ten 70 to 79 year olds manages to cover more than 15 miles a week with man’s best friend at their side. This can save on any costs that might otherwise be incurred on exercise classes and personal trainers or the gym.

Psychiatrists

Pets are known to have the capacity to improve their owner’s mental wellbeing as well as their physical health.

Burglar alarm

A dog can guard your home and put off unwanted visitors. I had a cat which tripped up some burglars. Despite being kicked he survived long after that to a ripe old age. The burglars got away but without all of their haul.

Breeding

Or if you do decide to keep your pets intact and have time to nurture properly you might be tempted to have some litters of kittens or puppies and sell them on. Careful scrutiny of new owners is a moral duty. Follow the guidelines for the pet’s ultimate wellbeing. Remember with a pedigree there will be hoops to be gone through so you do not dilute the quality of the breed. If the puppies or kittens for example turn out not to be pedigrees and you try to pass them off as such, there is likely to be trouble. Above all keep in mind that there are so many pets out there looking for homes already that you may well find you cannot move a pet on.

Poultry

Hens be surprisingly rewarding and responsive and can actually pay their own way by providing eggs. They also offer a good way of recycling household scraps. Mine enjoyed some beetroot soup yesterday with some rather tired rolls dipped in and a pear that was past its best. Of course they need space and shelter and are not viable for everyone.

Instead of owning a pet consider donating to an animal charity

The RSPCA urges anyone thinking of purchasing a pet to consider the long-term commitment required to properly care for an animal. It adds “Why not consider making a donation to an animal charity instead, or sponsoring a kennel or cat pod?”